<h1>Baltic States Cut Ties with Soviet-Era Grid, Join European Energy System, Marking Major Geopolitical Shift</h1> The Baltic states of Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania disconnected from the Soviet-era electricity grid linked to Russia, transitioning to the European energy system. This move, finalized on a Saturday morning, marks the end of their energy reliance on Russia, a significant geopolitical shift following decades of strained relations. The transition involves dismantling 16 power lines and establishing new connections with the EU, including links with Finland, Sweden, and Poland. The process is backed by a protocol with Russia to prevent hostilities. The Baltic nations, all NATO members, took security measures to ensure a smooth transition.